The quote from Jonathan Lethem's "The Fortress of Solitude," questioning the age at which a black boy realizes he is perceived as frightening, addresses the complex and often painful realities of race and identity. It highlights the moment when a young boy becomes aware of societal biases and the stereotypes that shape people's perceptions of him based solely on the color of his skin. This awakening signifies a loss of innocence and the beginning of a deeper understanding of racial dynamics.

In the context of the narrative, this moment serves as a pivotal point for the character's development and the exploration of themes such as belonging, alienation, and the impact of cultural expectations. Lethem's work delves into how these realizations affect the boy's interactions with the world and contribute to his identity formation, ultimately revealing the broader implications of race in America and the personal struggles that accompany it.